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ShowClearance Process

Clearance Process

FedEx Clearance

Working with Customs officials throughout the world, FedEx has developed innovative technology to eliminate many steps of the paperwork-handling process and expedite the movement of international shipments.

An example in Argentina is the FedEx Expressclear Electronic Customs clearance system. Starting at the origin location, state-of-the-art technology allows the processing of shipment paperwork and electronic transmission of documents to the designated FedEx hub and destination clearance location. The Expressclear system also keeps a database of regulatory information, which includes; importers' numbers, broker designations, corporate contact names and telephone numbers.

At a FedEx hub, international shipments are sorted, scanned and loaded onto an international flight. Vital shipment information is keyed into a worldwide manifest database, which is linked to computer systems operated by brokers and Customs officials in many countries. Even before the plane has taken off, or while it is in the air, Customs agents and brokers at the destination airport of entry can begin examining shipping manifests, querying air waybill data if they need more details, assessing duties and taxes and selecting the shipments they wish to examine. By the time the plane arrives at its destination, many packages have already been cleared by Customs. As the plane is unloaded, the Expressclear system identifies packages to be examined and prints "cleared" Customs labels for all others. Cleared shipments are transferred to trucks for immediate delivery.

International shipments are scanned at all key points throughout the process and this allows for up-to-date status reports including when Customs clearance is obtained.

When you're shipping a package, overlooking the smallest detail can unfortunately lead to delays. So before you hand your package over to FedEx, we suggest that you look over this list and make sure that you've got everything covered.

Shipper's Checklist - International

Check Country and FedEx Shipping Restrictions

Can you ship what you want where you want? Make sure your commodity is acceptable for shipment to the destination country via the FedEx service you've selected.

Check Required Forms for Completeness and Consistency

Make sure you correctly and consistently complete all necessary forms as discrepancies can cause delays. These forms include a signed International Air Waybill, the primary shipping document for most international shipments. You can fill out international shipping labels online using FedEx Ship Manager.

Other documents you need vary by shipment, and may include the Commercial Invoice.

Check Content Descriptions for Accuracy and Legibility

List separately each commodity that you are shipping and provide a detailed and accurate description of each, including what it's made of and how it will be used. Be specific and consistent in your content descriptions on the Air Waybill, Commercial Invoice and other required documents.

Check Declared Value for Accuracy

The Declared Value, along with your description of the content, is used to determine duties and taxes. Make sure the Declared Value you enter for customs reflects an accurate value and is the same on the Air Waybill, Commercial Invoice and other required documents.

Check Contact Information for both Sender and Consignee

Telephone, telex, or fax numbers are often the only way to notify recipients of their shipment. Include telephone, telex or fax numbers for both you as the sender and the consignee on the address labels. Put labels on two sides of the package, and include another inside the package.

Print Legibly

If using a manual Air Waybill, ensure all information is legible on original and copies.

Package your Shipment Securely

Do not exceed the weight specification of the packaging you're using. Seal packages. Do not ship items loose in cartons. Use fillers for inside protection. For more details on packing your shipment, see FedEx Packaging.

Purchase Special Insurance for High Value Items

We recommend that you purchase special insurance from your insurance company when shipping your high value items.